Bratz Dolls

The latest must have product for the pre-teen with everything is the trendily dressed Bratz Dolls. Standing at 10'', these toy dolls have made a huge impact across the world since they came on the market in 2001. The full lips, big eyes and snap on shoes have become a familiar site in our stores. The franchise has produced an animated television series, which began its run in 2005. There are also various movies, video games and even music albums. The girls were the first to go on sale, with the original four characters; Yasmin, Sasha, Cloe and Jade. The Bratz Boys joined the party in 2002 in the form of Cameron and Dylan. Since the start, other characters have joined the pack including sets of twins. There are budget lines and a range of special collections. Bratz Dolls are very popular in Japan and there is a Tokyo Collection, with urban Japanese clothing and anime type design. A Punkz boy's line, complete with punk hair and studs, is aimed at the British market. Other collections include the Hollywood, full of celebrity glamour, and the Play Sportz that features dolls dressed to play various different sports. The Treasure Dolls are based on a pirate theme. An entire world has been built around the dolls with accessories, play sets and vehicles, including motorcycles and jeeps. They ring each other on their cell phones and hang out at the Hair Studio, Ski Lodge and Retro Cafe. They're a sort of antidote to the saccharine world of Barbie. A little bit dangerous, a bit edgy. Not everyone loves them; critics say that it's inappropriate for the Bratz Dolls to wear such revealing outfits and such a lot of make up. They also worry that young people will become obsessed with a lifestyle that demands a lot of possessions and expensive hobbies. Their world keeps expanding. Bratz Babyz were introduced in 2004, each with a formula bottle, stuffed toy and comfort blanket. Bratz Petz joined the Bratz Dolls for pet lovers made but were cancelled after disappointing sales. The doll market may never be the same again. There must be a limit however, as to how far doll manufacturers can push the limits. In the fantasy world of the child, they seem to go very quickly these days from playing with nursery characters to dating hunks and going to the mall. Barbie has come in for some criticism too, but at least she always had a steady job.

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